Calumma oshaughnessyi, a Malagasy Beauty

Calumma osbaughnessyi is a chameleon native to southeastern Madagascar, found primarily in the dense rainforests from Ranomafana National Park to the edges of Andohahela National Park. This species thrives in humid, pristine environments rich with ferns and moss, typically avoiding secondary growth. At night, it can be observed perched on branches 2 to 4 meters above the ground.

Reaching nearly 40 cm in length, Calumma osbaughnessyi is one of the larger chameleon species. Males are characterized by prominent nasal appendages and an array of green-grey body colors highlighted with blue and yellow accents. Their heads and shoulders often appear grey-white, if excited and in mating period, they can turn maroon or brick red, with a turquoise throat, while females lack the distinct nasal appendages. Both sexes have small occipital lobes, with only a few individuals displaying enlarged conical scales.

The habitat in Ranomafana features steep canyons, rocky terrain, and dense undergrowth, with colossal trees often covered in lichen and moss. The region is perpetually foggy, fostering remarkable biodiversity. Calumma osbaughnessyi frequently sleeps on slender branches, balancing delicately amid the thick vegetation.

 Interestingly, this chameleon was named in honor of zoologist Albert Günther's friend, Arthur O'Shaughnessy, a tribute rare in Günther's work. The description work sadly appeared short after the Arthur's death at young age.